Annual tree lighting a glowing success | Letter

The Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce wishes to thank all those who helped make this year’s Village Green tree lighting a success!

Friday, Dec. 1 was a bit on the wet and windy side, so the chamber opted to give the Orcas Community Band a rare day off – with hopes to have them rejoin the fun in 2018!

The festivities moved indoors to the Orcas Island Historical Museum, which proved a warm and hospitable host. Our thanks go out to Executive Director Brittney Maruska and the museum’s staff and volunteers for helping make the event so successful.

The tree on the Village Green was expertly wrapped in strands of colored bulbs by the reliable crew from the Orcas Power and Light Cooperative.

Cookies and baked goods were donated by many chamber businesses and their employees. Along with hot apple cider, the combination brought smiles to those who joined in the fun.

The evening was made memorable once again with the appearance of Santa and Mrs. Claus delivering toys to all the children in attendance. The 2017 tree lighting ceremony marked the 20th year that Santa and Mrs. Claus (close friends of the Orcas Island couple, Scott and Judy Whiting) have taken part in holiday festivities on the island! The Chamber of Commerce speaks for many, many Orcas Islanders in thanking them for all they do in our community.

The Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce wishes everyone the happiest of holiday seasons.